A golf handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer’s ability or their “potential to play” a golf course at a given moment in time. Handicaps are calculated by comparing a player’s average number of strokes per round with their playing partners’ averages.

This handicap allows players of varying abilities to play with and fairly compete against one another.  The lower the handicap, the fewer shots you are given to play your round against the course and your fellow competitors.

Your handicap is also a measure of how well you are playing. Reducing your handicap is something every golfer can aspire to!

How does the golf handicap system work?

Historically,  handicap systems have varied from country to country, with many different systems in force around the world.  However, the USGA and the R&A, working with the various handicapping authorities, devised a new World Handicap System (WHS)  implemented in Australia in January 2020 and is being introduced globally. Golf Australia calculates the handicap for each player via cards entered into Golflink system through affiliate clubs such as Emajin Golf.

The World Handicapping System has been designed to make it possible and fair to compare golfers’ scores when they are competing from different tees on the same golf course, or even when they are competing against competitors playing different golf courses on that same day!

How do I get a golf handicap in Australia?

To get a Golf Australia (GA) Handicap, you need to be a member of a Golf Australia affiliated club such as Emajin GC.  You will then need to submit your scores for either three 18 hole rounds, six 9 hole or equivalent combinations of rounds using one of the following options:

• By emailing your scanned signed scorecards to scorecard@emajingolf.com
• By posting your signed scorecards to PO Box 89, Bondi Junction, NSW 1355

Rules for acceptance of scorecards for handicapping

Each scorecard must be verified and signed by someone who has a current GA handicap and has witnessed your round.

Submitted scorecards must display:

• the date the round was played
• the course played by tee colour
• the number of strokes taken to complete each hole to a maximum of 5 strokes over each hole’s par
• the player’s signature
• a marker signature who has an official GA handicap and witnessed the round
• the marker’s printed name and Golflink number

You can submit unlimited conforming scorecards to us for handicapping. 

Your handicap will also be adjusted (higher and lower) when you enter and play golf club open days, invitational, or other official competitions.

Having your own GA Handicap is a great incentive to improve your game. If you’re wondering how to get a golf handicap in Australia, talk to us today.

Remember you will need the Golflink number we supply within 24 hours of joining Emajin to book competition golf at clubs throughout Australia. You can expect your official Golflink card within 14 days.